Sports
Sports Minister Celebrates 60th Posthumous Birthday of “the Gangling” Rashidi Yekini
Joel Ajayi
…Says the “Goals father” will forever remain in the hearts of millions of Nigerians
The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, yesterday joined the nation and the global football community in commemorating the 60th posthumous birthday of legendary Nigerian footballer, Rashidi Yekini.
Yekini, born on October 23, 1963, in Kaduna, left an indelible mark on the world of football during his prolific career. As an Eagle, Yekini’s contributions to Nigerian football are immeasurable. He became an inspiration to countless young athletes in Nigeria and beyond, setting a high standard for excellence on the field.
“Rashidi Yekini’s name resonates with passion, dedication, and outstanding talent,” the Minister said. His unforgettable moments on the football field, including his historic goal during the 1994 FIFA World Cup, have left an indelible mark on the history of Nigerian football. Yekini’s records, achievements, and charisma continue to inspire generations of aspiring footballers across the nation.”
Senator Enoh recognized the enduring impact that Rashidi Yekini had on the sport and the unity he brought to the nation through his extraordinary talent. He stated, “Rashidi Yekini was not just a football legend; he was a source of national pride and unity. He captured the hearts of millions with his passion, dedication, and remarkable goal-scoring ability.”
We remember Rashidi Yekini not only for his incredible goals but also for the humility and grace with which he carried himself both on and off the field. “As we celebrate the life of Rashidi Yekini, we must also remember the values he represented – hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in oneself. These are the values that inspire us,” the Minister concluded.
The Gangling remains Nigeria’s highest goal scorer to date, with 37 goals for the Super Eagles. His “inside net” celebration after his goal against Bulgaria at the 1994 FIFA World Cup remains iconic 29 years after the showpiece event. He won the golden boot prize at the 1992 African Nations Cup in Senegal and clinched other top awards in the course of his career.
Sports
PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon Splashes Big Prize Money Ahead Of 14 November 2026 Race
Top Three Elite Finishers To Earn $8,000, $6,000 And $5,000 Respectively
The organisers of the highly anticipated PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon have announced an attractive prize package for athletes across every category ahead of the race on 14 November 2026 in Abuja.
The prize announcement has been welcomed by athletes and coaches, as the event continues to establish itself as one of the leading road races in Nigeria. The race offers local athletes the chance to compete against international runners in front of a home crowd, while also earning meaningful rewards.
In the elite category, first place earns $8,000, second place takes $6,000, third place gets $5,000, fourth place receives $4,000, fifth place goes home with $3,000, sixth place earns $2,000, seventh place takes $1,000, and eighth place gets $500.
In the Nigerian category, first place earns ₦2,000,000, second place takes ₦1,500,000, third place gets ₦1,000,000, fourth place receives ₦500,000, fifth place goes home with ₦300,000, sixth place earns ₦200,000, seventh place takes ₦100,000, and eighth place gets ₦50,000.
According to the organisers, the prize structure reflects the commitment of PremiumTrust Bank to the growth of athletics in Nigeria and to the encouragement of home based athletes. The separate Nigerian category ensures that local runners are properly recognised and rewarded for their performance.
The half marathon, which covers 21 kilometres, remains an important event for long distance runners. It serves as a test of endurance and preparation, and it provides a competitive platform for athletes building towards major national and international competitions.
The race is expected to draw elite athletes, club runners, corporate teams, fitness enthusiasts and supporters from across Nigeria and beyond. The turnout is expected to be high, given the interest already shown since registration opened.
Organisers have advised interested runners to register early through the official registration portal of the race to secure their participation, as arrangements are being put in place for timing, security, medical support and traffic management on race day.
The prize money is now confirmed, attention will shift to the athletes as they complete their final weeks of training and preparations ahead of the race day.
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